Should Sheriffs Speak Out Against Gun Proposals?

Several metro Atlanta sheriffs have stepped forward in recent days to say they will not enforce a number of gun measures proposed earlier this month by President Barack Obama.

Some of the president’s proposals include a limit on the number of bullets in an ammo clip and a renewed ban on assault rifles.

In Cherokee County, Sheriff Roger Garrison said he and his deputies would not enforce “any laws or regulations that negate the constitutional rights of the citizens of Cherokee County,” nor will allow the enforcement of “Any unconstitutional regulations or orders by federal officers” within his county’s borders.

“In the aftermath of the recent criminal events, the president, vice-president and many members of Congress are attempting to exploit the deaths of innocent victims by attempting to enact laws, restrictions; and, even through use of executive orders, prevent law-abiding American citizens from possessing certain firearms and ammunition magazines,” Garrison wrote in an opinion published on Woodstock Patch. “I will fully exercise the power of the Office of Sheriff to protect and defend the Constitutional rights of the citizens of Cherokee County. My position is best stated by fellow Sheriff Tim Muller of Linn County, Oregon in his letter to the President. ‘We are Americans. We must not allow, nor shall we tolerate, the actions of criminals, no matter how heinous the crimes, to prompt politicians to enact laws that will infringe upon the liberties of responsible citizens who have broken no laws.’”

Cobb County Sheriff Neil Warren authored a letter with a similar sentiment, which was published by the Marietta Daily Journal.

“It is my firm commitment to immediately challenge and seek injunctive relief from any statute or executive action which violates the constitutionally guaranteed rights of the citizens of Cobb County,” Warren wrote.

Should sheriffs be speaking out against the president’s gun proposals? Do you feel that they should enforce any new gun laws, or do you stand by their decision not to?

Share what’s on your mind with us, and then return here to see what your neighbors in Paulding, Douglas and Cobb have said.